Gently into the Land of the Meateaters

by James Sallis

Essays about the author's life in writing and music, and working as a respiratory therapist. James Sallis is the author of the widely reviewed and highly regarded Lew Griffin detective series, as well as books of jazz criticism and a new biography of Chester Himes. Gently into the Land. gives the reader an intimate view of the author's concerns-drawing meaning from tragedy, providing solace to the weak and vulnerable, gathering truth from love-and their sources. This volume will appeal to all Sallis fans.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2000

About the author

James Sallis (born 21 December 1944 in Helena, Arkansas) is an American crime writer, poet and musician, best known for his series of novels featuring the character Lew Griffin and set in New Orleans, and for his 2005 novel Drive, which was adapted into a 2011 film of the same name.

Reviews

[Owain Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best collections of essays I've ever read. Sallis is fast becoming one of my favorite writers. Full of warmth, humour, compassion and intelligence. For quite a small book he covers a lot of ground. From essays on civility and solitude to biographical pieces about the death of a young patient while working as a respiratory therapist or his time spent playing guitar in seedy bars with a shit-kicking country band, Sallis brings a real and honest humanity to everything he writes about. I actually finished reading this a few months ago but I've been carrying it round with me and re-reading it at random ever since. It's that good! A profound and beautiful book.

[Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful collection of nonfiction essays, many of which deal with writing and the writer's life. There are some brilliant touches here. Sallis does philosophy without it seeming like philosphy.

[Guy Salvidge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sallis is the best and these are the best personal essays. End review.